Farmers market to offer SNAP

Saco River Market has announced that anyone who receives SNAP benefits (previously known as food stamps) will be able to receive up to $10 in coupons to spend on food at the market. SNAP/EBT cardholders can visit the market at The Pepperell Center, 40 Main St., Biddeford to get their coupons and learn more about the program.

The market is open 9 a.m. to noon every Saturday.

The market is considering the launch of a full SNAP program next season, which would allow EBT cardholders to do their food shopping at market. By providing SNAP coupons, the market aims to gauge interest and see what impact this might have on the market and the community.

“Over 30 markets around the state have the equipment and systems in place to accept SNAP benefits, and we are always pleased to hear from other markets that are interested in this program,” said Emilie Knight, SNAP program coordinator with the Maine Federation of Farmers’ Markets. “This special coupon program is a simple way for a market to familiarize themselves with aspects of the SNAP program, and we are happy that the Saco River Market was eager to try it out.”